What does the Western Marsh Harrier eat?

The Western Marsh Harrier's diet shapes where and when you'll find it. Understanding what it eats helps you predict where to look.

Diet overview

Highly varied, consisting mainly of small to medium-sized birds (especially waterfowl and their chicks), small mammals (voles, mice, young rabbits), amphibians, reptiles (lizards, snakes), and large insects. Opportunistically takes fish and carrion.

How it forages

Hunts by quartering low over open ground or water, often gliding with wings in a shallow dihedral, meticulously scanning for prey. It often hovers briefly before dropping onto unsuspecting prey. Opportunistically snatches birds from flight or water surface. Frequently robs nests.

When it feeds

Diurnal, active primarily during daylight hours.

Explore the Western Marsh Harrier